Having a current passport provides great flexibility; you don't have to worry about getting your travel document in order, so you can decide to jump in on last-second international trips. You also don't have to pay for expedited processing with your back against the wall. A passport renewal involves a few different costs, but each has an inexpensive option.

Form DS-82

The U.S. Department of State handles the majority of passport renewal applications through the mail. The process requires a completed DS-82 application form. Your local post office provides this form for free, but it can be downloaded and printed from the State Department's website. The post office is your best bet; printing can cost money. Fill the form out completely with blue or black ink.

Standard Renewal

The State Department offers standard four- to six-week processing and expedited two- to three-week processing on the application form. Standard processing is the Department's cheapest option and at the time of publication, cost $110. Do not choose overnight return delivery for an extra fee.

Payment

The State Department accepts checks and money orders made out to the Department of State for the payment of the processing fee. Money orders can be obtained at some post offices, convenience stores, banks and other locations such as Walmart, but they cost money. A personal check is the cheapest way to make the payment.

Passport Photos

Form DS-82 requires one passport photo printed on photo quality paper that measures 2-by-2 inches. The State Department enforces strict passport photo rules, so buy photos from a reliable service provider. Some post offices provide photo services for a fee, but pharmacies such as Walgreens and other photo centers usually offer cheaper prices. Walmart allows you to take a picture with your computer at home that is available for pickup one hour later.

Envelope

The Department requires the use of a large envelope and recommends a secure package, such as a Tyvec envelope. You just need to make sure you don't fold the application when you go to mail it, and you only need to worry about its security one way. The Department uses a separate envelope for return delivery. An inexpensive manila envelope will do. Pick one up at a convenience store, drugstore, grocery market or office supply store.

Delivery Method

The State Department strongly recommends the use of a traceable delivery method. Fedex, UPS and the USPS offer inexpensive traceable shipments. Prices vary by region, but each of these companies offer online rate estimates. One inexpensive option is to go to the post office and have the package weighed to pay the exact postage. Be sure to include the completed application, passport photos, payment and your old passport.

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About the Author

Christopher Michael began writing in 2010 for Break.com. He received a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of Massachusetts, Amherst. Writing sports and travel articles helps support his professional baseball career, which has taken him to 49 states, five continents and four oceans.